Pry the center cap off the road wheel and use a suitable drift to unstake the axle shaft collar nut at the wheel hub. With an assistant applying brakes, break free the axle shaft collar nut without removing it completely. Raise the front of the vehicle and support it safely, then remove the front wheel. If applicable, remove the splash shield and front end reinforcement. Remove the ABS wheel speed sensor, followed by the front brake caliper, ensuring to tie it up without detaching the brake fluid line. Detach the tie rod end from the steering knuckle, then detach the tension strut and bushing from the steering knuckle, followed by the control arm and the stabilizer bar link at the suspension strut. Remove the axle shaft collared nut. Use the BMW special tool kit to press the axle shaft inward and disengage it from the steering knuckle, attaching the special tools to the drive flange and counterholding the flange with additional tools. Press out the axle shaft and secure it to the chassis with strong wire, taking care not to pound on the end of the axle shaft. Use a prying tool to force the axle shaft inner CV joint shaft out of the front
Differential or right bearing pedestal output flange, being prepared to catch any dripping oil. Replace the differential or bearing pedestal flange seal while the axle is removed, and replace CV joint boots as necessary. Install a new inner CV joint locking circlip, coating the sealing lip of the flange seal with transmission fluid before pushing the inner CV joint shaft into the differential or bearing pedestal flange until the locking circlip snaps in place. Lightly oil the axle shaft spline teeth and insert the axle shaft into the wheel hub, using the special tool to draw the axle into the hub while counterholding it with additional tools. The remainder of the installation follows the reverse order of removal, ensuring to use a new collar nut at the outboard end of the axle shaft, restaking the nut after tightening and caulking the axle threads. Finally, install the front end reinforcement plate with new fasteners and check the front differential oil level, topping off if necessary.